Catch Up on Fringe

I've said before that Fringe is probably the greatest science fiction show on television, and I've asked before, "Are you watching?" It will begin its fourth season on September 23, 2011.  If you haven't tuned in yet, now is a great time to jump aboard.  If you are intimidated by the complex plot of alternate universes, weird science, time travel, and other mind-fracking topics, Fox Broadcasting is helping you out by creating a Web series that recaps the series. 

Shows with intricate plotlines and multiple character arcs reward long-time viewers, but sometimes make it difficult for new viewers to jump aboard.  Fringe is the type of show that has great stand-alone episodes, but a rich mythology that builds throughout the seasons.  The brief Web episodes provide a solid orientation about the characters and the basic premise for the show, revealing some of the major plot points that have taken place so far.

Even better than Lost, which often aired recap episodes to keep new (and loyal) viewers up to speed on what was going on in the convoluted story, the Fringe Web series provides succinct information to set up the new season. 

Click here for "Past+Present+Future," narrated by John Noble who plays Walter Bishop. 

The second episode, "A Tragic Past," is even better.  Click here to view it.

Long-time fans will enjoy it, and I'm sure new viewers will be hooked.  It is epic storytelling and worth a look.